The CV obviously worked and you have been called up for an interview. NOW WHAT?
Below we have put together some helpful pointers on how to succeed in your interview. Take all these pointers in and make sure you are fully prepared to succeed in your interview.
Ensure that you have researched fully about the company you are going to. Look on their website and note down some relevant facts.
Make sure that you are fully prepared for your interview. Find out where you are going, who you are seeing, arrive on time and smartly dressed; switch your mobile off.
When you meet the interviewers always smile and shake hands, maintain eye contact. Take your time and think before you speak
The previous day you should have thought about the type of questions you may be asked and have practiced the answers that you will give. Here are a few questions that usually come up:
Why do you want to work for the company?
Use the research you have, highlight the company’s attributes. Always finish with the fact that you can see that you would be able to produce your best for the company due to their working environment and policies.
What do you see yourself doing in 5 years from now?
You must always see yourself still within the company. Perhaps having gained promotion if deserved but definitely as a part of the team.
Give me one negative point about yourself.
Be careful here. Try always to use a negative point in a positive way. “I used to take on too much, but I then realised that I needed to be more organised and this actually helped me to achieve more”
And your strengths?
Be careful not to take this as an opportunity to list all of your star qualities and end up boring the interviewer! Pick out two or three relevant points, with examples and be concise.
Why do you want to leave your current job?
The employment industry has a formula called CLAMPS. You can choose from:
C = Challenge
L = Location
A = Advancement
M = Money
P = Pride/Prestige
S = Security
Do you have any questions?
Always a sign that the interview is nearing completion. You should ensure that you do have at least one suitable question to ask.
Here are some example questions
- Who are the company’s main rivals?
- Is the company looking to expand in the future?
- Is there any company literature you can take away with you?
- What is the training criteria for the position, and how long will that training take?
- Why is the position open, what happened to the previous employee?
Always end the interview with a smile and thank the interviewers for their time. Shake hands; ensure that you do not leave any personal belongings behind.
If the interview has been arranged through an agency then telephone the consultant concerned and let him/her know how it all went.